The typical symbol of a UK engagement is a diamond ring, but around the world engagement jewellery is as varied and diverse as the customs that surround it. From family-approved gifts in China to the symbolic Claddagh ring of Ireland, every culture has its own way of marking a betrothal. This is part two of our look at engagement jewellery traditions around the world, continuing the journey begun in part one, with ideas you can explore in Hatton Garden, London's diamond quarter.
Engagement Traditions in China
In China, an engagement is very much a family affair, and it is not only the bride who receives jewellery. The man's family traditionally sends gifts of clothing, jewellery and precious metals like gold and silver to the family of his partner.
If they approve of the match, the woman's family returns a coin engraved with a word meaning agreed, along with their own gifts, and the engagement is complete. The exchange seals the union between two families, not just two people.
It is a reminder that in many cultures jewellery carries social meaning far beyond romance.
The Irish Claddagh Ring
Irish couples often become engaged with a Claddagh ring, one of the most recognisable symbolic designs in the world. Its three features each carry meaning, a heart for love, two hands for friendship and a crown for loyalty.
Traditionally given to represent friendship and family bonds, the Claddagh is now chosen by many couples with Irish roots in place of a conventional engagement ring. The way it is worn, and which way the heart points, even signals whether the wearer is single, engaged or married.
Few rings pack so much meaning into a single, timeless design.
Engagement Traditions in Greece
In Greece, both partners wear rings, and like the Irish they often skip the diamond solitaire. Greek couples tend to choose simple gold bands when they become engaged, and these same rings serve as their wedding rings too.
The rings are blessed by a Greek Orthodox priest at the engagement and worn on the left hand until the marriage ceremony, when they are moved to the right. The blessing gives the plain band deep spiritual significance.
Fun fact: The custom of swapping a ring between the left and right hand to mark the move from engagement to marriage appears across several cultures, each with its own reasoning behind the change.
Where the Journey Goes Next
From family negotiations to symbolic designs and priestly blessings, these traditions show how richly varied engagement jewellery can be. Each reflects what its culture values most in a lasting union.
To complete the trilogy, read part three of our engagement traditions, which visits Turkey, Norway and Thailand.
Whichever tradition inspires you, the jewellers of Hatton Garden can help you find a ring or band that carries your own meaning.
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